The grand hall felt suffocating. Moon crystal chandeliers spilled pale light over the gathered wolves and the air was heavy with the scent of rare flowers and old Alpha power.
Tonight marked the Bloodridge Pack securing a powerful alliance, a pact that would strengthen their territory for generations.
I stood near a tower of glowing moon wine, holding a glass of sparkling spring water I never touched. I wore a deep blue Luna gown and kept smiling until my face ached.
“Lunessa.”
A loud voice broke through the polite noise. I turned to see Rhydan Frostvein, Ramona’s brother and Axton’s closest ally, walking toward me. He looked rested and strong, clearly fresh from negotiating with desert packs beyond the sea.
“Rhydan,” I said, smiling honestly this time. I had always liked him. He was blunt but truthful, unlike most wolves in this hall.
He pulled me into a strong embrace. “Good to see you, Lunessa. You look radiant as always.” He released me and slapped Axton’s shoulder as my mate appeared beside me. “And you, lucky Alpha. Still bonded to a Luna far above your league.”
Axton laughed and raised his glass. “Always, Rhydan.”
Rhydan’s expression shifted. “I wanted to thank you. For watching over Ramona while I was gone. I know she is difficult.”
“It was no trouble,” Axton said quickly, his smile stiff. “She has been wonderful. Very calm.”
I took a sip of water to hide my smile.
Calm, he said?
“Well,” I said lightly, “it has been nice seeing her so cheerful. I think having a mate has helped her settle.”
The space around us went still.
Rhydan blinked. “A mate?”
Axton’s body went rigid beside me. His Alpha aura flared before he pulled it back.
“What mate?” Rhydan asked sharply. “She never told me. Who is he?”
“Oh,” I said softly, pretending confusion. “I thought you knew. She goes out nearly every night. I have not met him, but she seems very invested.”
Rhydan’s jaw tightened. His gaze swept the hall until it landed on Ramona near the dessert table, laughing with young pack heirs. “Excuse me.”
He strode toward her without another word.
“Lunessa,” Axton growled once Rhydan was gone. He grabbed my arm hard. “What was that?”
I pulled free and looked at him innocently. “What do you mean? You said they were close.”
“You know he did not know,” Axton snapped, his face red. “Why would you say that? He will question her. If she slips…”
“I am sorry,” I murmured, lowering my eyes. “I did not mean to cause trouble. I misspoke.”
“Damn it,” he hissed, dragging a hand through his hair. “You know how strict Rhydan is. That is why she broke before and fell into darkness. She is stable now. And you are undoing it.”
Across the hall, voices were rising. Rhydan stood in front of Ramona, gesturing sharply. Her smile vanished as panic crept into her face. Wolves nearby began to watch.
“She is losing control,” Axton muttered. “I need to stop this before she says something foolish.”
He shot me a warning look. “Stay here. Do not speak to anyone.”
Then he rushed toward them, stepping between brother and sister, touching Rhydan’s shoulder in a calming way while whispering urgently to Ramona. She paled at his words.
I watched him carefully. He was managing lies, weaving control, keeping his worlds apart.
This was my moment.
I set my glass on a passing tray.
I did not say goodbye. I turned and walked toward the exit. The heavy carved doors opened, and cold night air brushed my skin. It tasted like freedom.
I did not take the pack car. I called for a hired ride at the corner.
“Where to, Luna?” the driver asked.
“Bloodridge Manor,” I replied.
The estate was silent when I arrived. It felt like a burial ground I was finally leaving.
My travel case was already packed, hidden deep in the closet. I changed into simple clothes. I removed the moon diamond earrings Axton gave me. I slipped off my bond ring.
I placed the ring on the bedside table beside a small velvet box.
Inside was not jewelry. It was a crystal drive. It held every image I recorded, every message taken from his cloud, and the sound file of them planning to use me for inheritance and destroying my unborn pup.
Happy bond anniversary, Axton.
I took my case and left.
I was riding through the city lights when my communicator rang. From Axton.
I stared at the name, then answered.
“Lunessa?” His voice was rushed. “Where are you? I turned around and you were gone.”
“I am sorry,” I said weakly. “The noise and moon lights overwhelmed me. I felt dizzy. And I felt terrible for causing conflict.”
“Oh,” he breathed out. His tone softened into familiar pity. “You should have told me. I would have taken you home.”
“I did not want to disturb you. You were busy with Rhydan and Ramona.”
“That is settled,” he muttered. “I am sorry I snapped. I was under pressure.”
“I understand.”
“Are you home?” he asked. “I am on my way. Twenty minutes.”
My pulse jumped. I looked at the sign passing outside. Border Gate to Neutral Territory Five Miles.
“Not yet,” I said. “Sabryn called. My friend from the Wargrove Pack. She is breaking down after her bond severance. She needs me tonight.”
“Tonight?” he complained. “You are not well.”
“I have to go. She has no one else. I am already on the way.”
“Fine,” he sighed. “When will you return?”
“Soon,” I said gently. “Before you notice.”
“Call me when you arrive.”
“I will. Axton?”
“Yes?”
“I left your bond gift on the nightstand. I know it is late, but you will love it.”
“You bought me something?” he said, pleased. “You did not have to.”
“I wanted to,” I replied, smiling softly. “It is very honest. It shows how well I know you.”
“I cannot wait to see it,” he laughed. “I love you, Lunessa.”
“Goodbye,” I said.
I ended the call, already imagining his face when he opened the perfect gift I left behind.
